Prep Time

Like our other long hikes, there was lots to do.  We had 2 major priorities.  Water in the desert-like section (first 700 miles) and the weight of our gear (Shadow's back).  My goal was for us to both have a base weight of 12lbs.  Base weight is everything but consumables (water, food, fuel).  Our ending AT base weight was 30lbs although it took a few months to get there.  New Zealand's base weight was around 20lbs.  So it was only natural to try and get lighter.  As Shadow says, "weight equals happiness" when you hike.  He's not confident we can get that light, but I'm determined to get as close as we can.  Major changes to our gear was needed.  Here's a link to our gear list.  It's constantly changing, but that's normal. 

Click Here for My Gear List
Click Here for Shadow's Gear List

Every long trail is different and on the PCT we will have to carry more water and deal with high elevations.  For example, or example the desert section calls for us to carry 5-6 liters of water with 20-35 miles between natural water sources.  The trail itself is graded for pack animals which should make the hiking easier compared to the rocks and roots of the AT.  The total distance is 2,660 miles so our daily mileage will need to increase from 15 miles a day to 20-25 miles a day.  Most of the trail will be exposed unlike the Green Tunnel back East and parts will be above 10,000 feet.

Every Ounce Counts!

I don't think all of this stuff is going to fit.